2009 Lotus Exige vs. 1987 Mazda 626
To start off, 2009 Lotus Exige is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lotus Exige (240 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1987 Mazda 626. (146 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 1987 Mazda 626.
Because 2009 Lotus Exige is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Lotus Exige. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Mazda 626, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2009 Lotus Exige (231 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mazda 626. (182 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Lotus Exige will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lotus Exige | 1987 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Lotus | Mazda |
| Model | Exige | 626 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2580 mm |
